The Chairman of the OTL Africa Downstream Energy Week Advisory Board, Mr. Adetunji Oyebanji, has called for stronger collaboration, improved data systems, and smarter policies to accelerate Africa’s energy transformation.
Oyebanji made the call during a press briefing in Lagos ahead of the 2025 edition of the OTL Africa Downstream Energy Week, the continent’s leading downstream energy event.
He said the conference would bring together stakeholders across the energy value chain — from oil and gas to renewables — for discussions, innovation showcases, and policy dialogues aimed at shaping Africa’s energy future.
According to him, transparency and accurate data would take centre stage at this year’s edition, as reliable statistics are vital for effective planning, policymaking, and investment in Nigeria’s downstream sector.
“Many people still don’t fully understand how this industry works. Without accurate data, it’s hard to plan or attract investment,” Oyebanji said.
He disclosed that the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) was collaborating with Platts to develop a West Africa–specific pricing benchmark — a move expected to reduce dependence on foreign indices like Rotterdam that do not fully reflect regional realities.
Oyebanji, who is also the Managing Director of 11PLC, highlighted the uncertainty around Nigeria’s true fuel consumption and production figures as a major barrier to investment.
He proposed the establishment of a dedicated government agency to monitor fuel usage, refinery output, and depot capacities to enable evidence-based decision-making.
“It’s time we get the numbers right. That’s how to build confidence and attract capital,” he added.
Now in its 19th year, the OTL Africa Downstream Energy Week is organised in partnership with the NMDPRA and other key stakeholders across the midstream and downstream sectors.
The 2025 edition will be held under the theme, “Energy Sustainability – Growth Beyond Boundaries and Competition,” focusing on deregulation, competitiveness, and sustainability in the evolving energy landscape.
The week-long event will feature ministerial and regulatory panels from five West African countries, over 60 expert speakers across 10 technical sessions, and the OTL Trade Exhibition, showcasing innovations in refining, trading, LPG, lubricants, logistics, and energy transition technologies.
Delegates will also embark on guided tours of major energy hubs, including the Dangote Refinery Complex, and participate in exclusive networking sessions in Lagos.
Also speaking, Mrs. Joyce Akabogu, CEO of OTL Downstream Development in Africa Ltd., said the event has evolved into a strategic platform driving growth and innovation in the continent’s energy sector.
“OTL Downstream Week has become more than just a conference. It’s where deals are made, partnerships are born, and innovation takes centre stage,” Akabogu said.
She added that Lagos would once again host an exciting mix of local and international participants for a vibrant week of learning, collaboration, and industry advancement.
